PA Covered Bridges

Visiting McClurg Covered Bridge in Washington County

Collage of four photos of the McClurg Covered Bridge in Washington County, Pennsylvania, showing side and front views of the red 1880 Kingpost truss bridge, the interior walkway, and a plaque detailing its 1987 relocation, 1988 restoration, and list of donors.

Tucked away in a community park in Washington County, the McClurg Covered Bridge is a hidden gem with an outsized claim to fame.

Angled view of the McClurg Covered Bridge in Washington County, Pennsylvania, a small red 1880 Kingpost truss bridge surrounded by tall trees at Hanover Township Park.

At just 24 feet long, it holds the title of the shortest covered bridge in Pennsylvania.

McClurg Covered Bridge in Washington County, Pennsylvania, a small red wooden Kingpost truss bridge built in 1880, surrounded by tall pine trees with a park bench nearby.

Today, it offers visitors a chance to step back in time while strolling through Hanover Township Park.

History of the McClurg Covered Bridge

Originally built in 1880, the McClurg Covered Bridge is a Kingpost truss bridge, a style well-suited for short spans.

Interior view of the McClurg Covered Bridge in Washington County, Pennsylvania, showing the red wooden Kingpost truss design and plank flooring leading out to a grassy park setting.

It was first located on Devil’s Den Road, carrying traffic across Kings Creek.

Front view of the McClurg Covered Bridge in Washington County, Pennsylvania, a small red wooden Kingpost truss bridge built in 1880 and now spanning a dry ravine in Hanover Township Park.

After more than a century of service, the bridge was carefully relocated in 1987 to its present home in Hanover Township Park.

Plaque at the McClurg Covered Bridge in Washington County, Pennsylvania, detailing its relocation from Devils Den in 1987, restoration completed in 1988, and honoring donors who contributed to the project.

Instead of spanning a flowing stream, it now crosses a dry ravine and serves foot traffic only.

Side view of the McClurg Covered Bridge in Washington County, Pennsylvania, a small red wooden Kingpost truss bridge built in 1880, surrounded by tall trees in Hanover Township Park.

Despite its small size, the bridge is a lasting piece of local history and an excellent example of 19th-century craftsmanship.

Close-up interior view of the McClurg Covered Bridge in Washington County, Pennsylvania, highlighting the red wooden Kingpost truss construction and square window openings overlooking the surrounding trees.

Final Thoughts

Visiting the McClurg Covered Bridge is less about length and more about legacy.

Front entrance view of the McClurg Covered Bridge in Washington County, Pennsylvania, showing its red wooden structure with a sign reading “McClurg Bridge 1880” above the opening and a grassy park landscape visible beyond.

It may be the shortest covered bridge in Pennsylvania, but it stands tall in historic significance and charm.

View through the McClurg Covered Bridge in Washington County, Pennsylvania, showing the red wooden structure with a playground and trees visible beyond the bridge.

Exploring PA’s Record-Holding Covered Bridges and Unique Spans highlights Pennsylvania covered bridges that each hold a unique record, whether for length, design, or historic distinction.

A collage of 4 photos featuring the longest, shortest, highest covered bridges in Pennsylvania, as well as the only covered bridges built over a natural waterfall.

Nearby Attractions

7 Must-See Attractions in Washington County showcases more remarkable sights and experiences near McClurg Covered Bridge.

A collage of 4 attractions from Washington County, PA including Meadowcroft, the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum, the Duncan and Miller Glass Museum, and Sarris Chocolate Factory.

A Smarter Way to Explore Pennsylvania

Explore Pennsylvania like a pro with the interactive PA Bucket List Travel Map, showcasing over 1,000 memorable destinations I’ve personally visited across the Keystone State.

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